Hiring a nanny is one of the most important decisions a family can make. You are inviting someone into your home to care for your children — and that requires trust, diligence, and a clear process.

At Nest & Nobles, we have vetted hundreds of caregivers. Here is how we approach it, and what you should look for when vetting a nanny on your own.

1. Start with a Detailed Job Description

Before you begin your search, define exactly what you need. Be specific about:

Schedule and weekly hours
Key responsibilities (childcare only, or light housekeeping too)
Required qualifications and certifications
Preferred personality traits and parenting alignment

A clear job description attracts the right candidates and saves everyone time.

2. Review Their Resume and References

Look for consistent work history and relevant experience. Red flags include frequent short-term positions without clear explanations.

When checking references, ask specific questions:

"How did the nanny handle a stressful situation with your child?"
"Was the nanny punctual and reliable?"
"Why did the nanny leave your family?"

3. Conduct a Comprehensive Background Check

Every nanny should pass a national background check that includes:

County criminal records
National sex offender registry
Social Security trace
Motor vehicle records (if driving is required)

We recommend using a professional service for this. Never skip this step.

4. In-Person Interview

An interview is your chance to assess rapport, communication style, and professionalism. Consider including a practical component such as:

Asking the nanny to engage with your child for 15 minutes
Role-playing a common scenario (e.g., mealtime, tantrum)
Discussing discipline philosophy and daily routines

5. Trial Period

A paid trial period of 2–3 days allows both sides to assess fit before committing long-term. Use this time to observe interactions, punctuality, and how the nanny handles the natural flow of your household.

Final Thoughts

Vetting a nanny thoroughly is not about distrust — it is about diligence. The right nanny will welcome your thoroughness because they have nothing to hide and everything to offer.

If you would like help from professional vetting experts, contact Nest & Nobles. We do the work so you can focus on building a beautiful relationship with your new caregiver.